Luna Abyss: team layoffs threaten the future of the game and studio

Intelligence Summary
- Luna Abyss, launched on May 21, 2026, faces team layoffs that could affect the future of the game and studio.
In brief
- Luna Abyss launched on May 21, 2026 and has an 81% Metacritic score.
- The entire nine-person development team was laid off on June 16, 2026.
- The game has a peak of 317 concurrent players on Steam.
GAME-scanner analysis
Luna Abyss, developed by Kwalee Labs, has been well received, earning an 81% score on Metacritic. However, the recent layoffs of the entire development team, just a month after launch, have raised serious questions about the future of both the game and the studio. Kwalee Labs CEO Hollie Emery said the decision to let the team go was outside their control, making the situation even more complicated. This has sparked concerns about the studio’s financial health and its ability to continue supporting the game.
The layoffs could also undermine player confidence in Kwalee Labs, which is crucial for its future projects. Despite the positive reception and initial sales, uncertainty around updates and support may discourage the player base. The game is currently available for $29.99 on Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC, but the future of the IP is now uncertain.
What does this mean for players?
For players, this means the future of Luna Abyss is in jeopardy. The possibility of updates and new content is now in doubt, which could lead to disappointment among the player base. Players are left wondering whether their investment in the game will still pay off, especially given the recent developments. The question remains whether Kwalee Labs will be able to keep supporting the game or whether the layoffs will bring further development to an end.
Timeline
May 21, 2026: Luna Abyss launched with an 81% score on Metacritic.
June 16, 2026: The entire nine-person development team was laid off.
2026: The peak concurrent player count on Steam was 317.
2026: The game is available for $29.99 on Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC.